Particle.news
Download on the App Store
15 ARTICLES
·
5d ago

Matthew Tkachuk Cleared to Play in Panthers’ Playoff Opener

After recovering from a February injury, Tkachuk will return to the ice for Game 1 against Tampa Bay, providing a key boost for Florida’s playoff campaign.

Andrei Vasilevskiy #88 of the Tampa Bay Lightning skates off after losing Game Four of the First Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs in overtime against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Amalie Arena on April 24, 2023 in Tampa, Florida.
Florida Panthers left wing Matthew Tkachuk (19) celebrates with the bench after scoring against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period in Game 1 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series, Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Overview

  • Matthew Tkachuk has been activated from long-term injured reserve and will play in Game 1 of the Florida Panthers’ first-round playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
  • The Panthers’ star winger suffered a lower-body injury in February during the Four Nations Face-Off, sidelining him for the final 25 games of the regular season.
  • Coach Paul Maurice confirmed Tkachuk’s return after monitoring his recovery through practices and morning skates, while also preparing contingency lineups in case he was unavailable.
  • Tkachuk has been a pivotal player in the Panthers’ recent playoff success, ranking among franchise leaders in postseason points and contributing significantly to their 2024 Stanley Cup win.
  • Fans and analysts continue to discuss the NHL’s LTIR protocols, contrasting Tkachuk’s clearance with restrictions faced by other players, such as the Oilers’ Evander Kane.